Tuesday, July 19, 2011

do something that scares you

We talked about the importance of pushing yourself to step outside your comfort zone so you can grow and progress.

We talked about needing to do things that scare you.

And then I gave all my students a chance to step outside their comfort zones.

I had them write down one achievement that changed them dramatically as well as something that they would fix in their life if they had a magic wand.

We made a big circle of desks.

I explained how public speaking can cause anxiety for a lot people and that talking about yourself, especially your achievements, can feel uncomfortable.

Depending on how far they wanted to push themselves outside their comfort zone, they could address the class standing in the middle of the circle, standing up at their desk, or remaining seated. That was their choice to make.

We went around the whole circle of 30 students and everyone, myself included, shared their greatest achievement and what they would change in their life.

This is always my favorite class of the semester.

Students really share. Tears are shed.

It's amazing to get to see a glimpse into who all my students truly are, what they have been through, and triumphed over. By the time the last person has shared, there is a very special feeling in the room. It's a feeling that I'm sure is rarely felt in a college classroom. People feel validated, connected to each other, and inspired.

Classes like today's class make me want to be a better, stronger person.

I walk away wanting to be more like my students.

I also walk away in borderline shock that I actually just got paid to have that experience.

That is amazing. I feel lucky to read your insights on your blog. Thank you for sharing them with us. Now we can all pretend to be in your class! I wish.

When I graduated from college my aunt sent me a square greeting card that says, 'do one thing every day that scares you. -eleanor roosevelt' on the front. Nothing else, just white print on a black background. I kept it and 2 years later, it's still on my fridge. I think it's just about the wisest advice ever!

Posts like this make me want to take your class so badly. I wish I lived close enough!! Maybe one day life will take me your direction! :) I love these few small moments in education where the setting for true self-discovery and growth occurs. They are rare and always treasured.

As an elementary teacher this really inspired me for this upcoming school year. Every year I try to start out with an amazing attitude and (keep it) which is sometimes the hard part. As a teacher you learn there will the good, bad & ugly to your job-but those good days-like the one you just described or the ones for me & my little 4th graders when they actually understand what a simile is & are happy about it :))) its ALL worth it! xoxo